cumulus studio designs 'stoney rise cellar door' in tamar valley, tasmania

with simple architectural gestures and a design that puts visitor experience first, cumulus studio has completed the ‘stoney rise cellar door’ in tamar valley, a wine-producing region of tasmania. located in the rural community of gravelly beach, and within the existing stoney rise winery, the new structure replaces the original cellar door on the client’s property.

images by anjie blair | @anjieblair

cumulus studio worked closely with the client to establish the main goals of the project. the architects and stoney rise resolved to keep the building footprint to a minimum and utilize high-quality materials. the final program and layout are shaped by the brief for a cellar door that could be staffed by one person while still ensuring a unique experience for curious wine lovers. it was also important for the building to be able to host a variety of functions, from daily visits and wine tastings to dinner parties and social gatherings.

the arrival sequence was carefully thought out by cumulus studio. when driving up to the cellar door site, guests are greeted by a low-lying building, articulated by angular walls, that changes in character depending on which direction you view it from. once parked, people are guided into the entrance on the short elevation by a stone path and blade-like walls clad in untreated spotted gum timber.

once inside, the structure opens up again to an open plan tasting area, cellar door, outdoor courtyard, and the rural landscape beyond. these spaces are characterized by locally-sourced daniel robertson bricks that have been creatively detailed to make charming wine bottle shelves, plinths and seating areas. combined with warm burgundy and the silvery wood outside, the material palette was chosen to reflect the stoney rise brand. emphasis was given to locally sourced, natural, untreated and long-lasting materials that will patina and age over time — much like a fine wine.